Federal government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Planning Committee for the 2025 Youth Entrepreneurial and Innovation Alliance, YEIA, Boot Camp.
The move is part of its ongoing efforts to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and bilateral cooperation under the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, made the announcement yesterday in Abuja.
He noted that the initiative is being organised in partnership with Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum.
According to Olawande, the boot camp will provide a dynamic platform to nurture creativity, build entrepreneurial capacity and foster collaboration between young innovators from Nigeria and Bangladesh.
He emphasised that the initiative aligns with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ by strengthening bilateral ties, attracting investment in technology and innovation, and enhancing youth capacity through targeted training and industrial exposure.
“The primary goals of the boot camp are to facilitate high-level engagements between public and private sector stakeholders, mobilise investments and equip youths with the relevant skills and global exposure,” Olawande said.
He charged the committee members, drawn from various ministries and strategic sectors, to ensure that Nigeria’s participation is impactful and nationally representative.
He also urged them to carry out their responsibilities with diligence, creativity and collaboration, in line with the committee’s terms of reference.
In his welcome remarks, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, represented by the Acting Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion, Mr Mike Ugwuogu, highlighted the scope of the upcoming boot camp.
He said the event would bring together, young innovators, startup founders and changemakers from around the world, creating a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
He highlighted the significance of the 2025 edition, to be hosted in Bangladesh, as a unique opportunity for youths to showcase their talents, connect with global counterparts and access networks that support innovation-led development.
Also speaking at the event, President of the Nigeria-Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum, Mr Bob Achanya, described the initiative as a strategic platform for linking youths, policymakers and the private sector.
He reaffirmed the vision to empower more than 10 million young people through access to mentorship, training and entrepreneurial opportunities aimed at driving sustainable economic growth.(NAN)
